asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he has proposals for the removal of the present fuel surcharges on package holidays; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Package Holiday Fuel Surcharges.
4.
I have no such proposals. In so far as I have responsibility in this area, I am satisfied that the consumer is afforded a considerable level of protection by the provisions of the Consumer Information Act, 1978, which prohibit the giving of a false or misleading indication as to the price or charge for any goods or service.
I am somewhat disappointed to hear that the Minister has no such proposals. He will be aware that his counterpart in Britain is taking steps in the direction mentioned in my question to ensure that the fuel surcharge element of package holidays is abolished. Will the Minister accept that, in times of very low inflation and stable oil prices, there is not now the justification for an additional fuel surcharge as obtained perhaps a dozen years ago? Furthermore, would he agree that any action on his part or that of any other member of the Government to reduce the price of package holidays even marginally would be in incentive and boost to our tourist trade? May I ask the Minister to investigate the matter again?
I will certainly do that. However, I should say that the insertion of a surcharge in a contract is a civil matter between the two parties to the contract. Nevertheless, I am prepared to examine it and, if there is any action I can take by way of helping the consumer, I will gladly do so.